In a weekend when we remember those who've fought for our country, more and more are signing up for service.

Even with all the conflicts going on in the world, that isn't scaring away New Mexicans from serving the U.S.

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Lt. Col. John Cedillo said at a time when other states are struggling to recruit National Guard soldiers, he's been able to recruit enough soldiers and then some.

"We've been fortunate," Cedillo said.

Cedillo said his job as recruiter has been relatively easy the past couple of years, despite all the wars and conflicts the U.S. is involved in.

"You'll have the time to get to school, you'll have the opportunity to do the same things an active duty soldier will do, but you get to do it at home," Cedillo said.

Cedillo said that's not the case in other states, he said New Mexicans have always wanted to fight for their country. While New Mexico has hit their target with enlistees to spare, other states have only been able to meet about 80 percent of their target.

"I'm not surprised at all. New Mexicans are a little bit unique. We have more veterans here than any other state," Cedillo said.

Cedillo said a down economy with high unemployment numbers does help him convince people to enlist.

"The last two years we've met our enlistment numbers. We're on track to do it again. We're at 98 percent of our end strength," Cedillo said.

Last year, they had 450 enlistees. So far, 300 people have signed up, and Cedillo said he has three months to find another 100 soldiers. He said the educational benefits attract many.

"In the last couple of years, the benefits have pretty much stayed the same. They've stayed steady. There are bonuses," Cedillo said.

Cedillo said another tool attracting new enlistees is that the New Mexico National Guard now has a program with the border patrol. Those who join the New Mexico National Guard can stay in New Mexico and protect the border here.

Last year, the New Mexico National Guard was at 118 percent of its recruiting target.

States like Pennsylvania, North Dakota and New Jersey only met 80 percent of their goal of enlistees.